CASA of West Texas invites public to child abuse prevention event

By Rachael Gleason | rgleason@mrt.com

Published
6:06 pm CDT, Monday, March 24, 2014

CASA of West Texas will host a free hot dog dinner April 1 in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The event features a children’s fun fair, balloon release and remembrance ceremony starting at 6 p.m. at Centennial Plaza. True-Lite Christian Fellowship Choir will perform, and Greenie the Clown and facepainters will be on hand for entertainment.

CASA offers legal advocacy and mentorship for foster care children in five Permian Basin counties with about 130 volunteers.

“They are the eyes, ears and voice of the child in court,” said CASA Director Patty Pisklak, previously.

But more advocates are needed with a growing population, said Kathy Harmon, CASA’s recruitment and marketing specialist.

“More children are in foster care, and there are more cases of abuse and neglect,” Harmon said. “We’re always looking for volunteers.”

The event will include informational booths and brochures from the Midland Rape Crisis & Children’s Advocacy Center, Midland County Child Welfare Board, Child Protective Services, Buckner Children and Family Services, High Sky Children’s Ranch, The Genesis Center, Dental Quest and Maximus.